The Dahlia was first discovered in the plains of
Mexico nearly 400 years ago, where it was called
acoctli.  Although quite beautiful in appearance,
nothing was done to bring about its cultivation
until 200 years later.  At that time, botanical
experts in Mexico sent a gift of Dahlia seeds to the
royal gardens in Madrid, where they were cultivated
and given as a gift to the wife of the Mexican ambassador to the Spanish court.

The flower was named in honor of a noted
botanical author from Sweden, A. Dahl.  Dahlias immediately became popular for use in royal
functions, and members of the royal court sought
them out to establish their position in society.

Dahlias have a strong, spicy smell and are available
in a broad range of shapes, from fluffy to cactus
to pom-pom to peony flower.  Most of the Dahlias
today are cultivated in Holland, but Californians
have recently become more interested in
developing hybrids.  Dahlias are increasingly
available from July through November.

Dahlias come in a variety of colors that include
purple, lavender, red, yellow, pink, and even
bronze and white.  The newest varieties include
two-tone flowers.  Dahlias measure 4-8 inches
across and sit on stems that are 1-3 feet in
length.  When the Dahlia is in full bloom, it makes
an excellent decorative hair piece or bridal
bouquet adornment.  Its average vase life is 1-2
weeks.  These flowers are similar in appearance to Chrysanthemums and, when feasible, may be used
in their place in arrangements.